Deciding Between Laser and Wrinkle Fillers (Can Only Afford One). Which Works Better?

Hi Elisabetta.  If the lines you are speaking about are the ones commonly referred to as "smoker's lines", the small vertical lines around the lips above and below the mouth, then we would not suggest Radiesse.  If those lines are your issue then laser resurfacing would provide a safer and longer lasting result than Radiesse.  Botox will also help to relax the muscles in this area and smooth these lines.

If the lines you are speaking about are the nasolabial folds (the lines between corners of nose and corners of mouth) then lasers would not be a good option and the Radiesse (or Restylane, Juvederm, Perlane) would be an excellent option.

In deciding which will work better, it is likely that the laser will have a longer lasting and more aesthetic result for your wrinkles.                  

I would advise you to do neither.  Jowls and perioral wrinkles may require more than one treatment.  If you cannot afford it at the moment, I would advise you to wait so that you can complete the treatment for perfect results.

The upper lip vertical lines respond better to resurfacing but will still be there because of the muscle movement. Smile creases respond better to filler such as Radiesse.

In general, laser is good for fine lines and wrinkles, fillers for moderate wrinkles and surgery for moderate to severe wrinkles.  Also, areas with thin skin, such as the eyelids, laser is a better option since fillers may leave obvious lumps.  Radiesse is a great filler for the cheeks and around the mouth.  Juvederm is a great filler for the lips and the nasolabial folds.  Good luck.